The name spearmint includes some curly-leaved Mentha species such as M. aquatica L. var. crispa (L.) Benth., M. spicata L. var. crispa (Benth.) Danert, M. longifolia (L.) Huds. var. crispa (Benth.) Danert. Spearmint belongs to the labiate family. The group of spearmint plants is characterized by the "curly" leaves and the spearmint smell when the leaves are rubbed. This comes from the glandular scales on the surface of the leaves, which contain an essential oil, spearmint oil, with a high proportion of (-)-L-carvone, which is used in the production of mouthwashes, toothpastes and chewing gum. The leaves are also used as a spice in meat dishes, salads, vegetables and sauces.
The leaves (spearmint leaves - Menthae crispae folium) are used phytotherapeutically.